Cavalli Audio Liquid Carbon

Need help?

Do you have a question about the Cavalli Audio Liquid Carbon and is the answer not in the manual?

Overview

Function Description
Usage Features
Important Cautions for Usage
Maintenance Features
Warranty and Support
Safety and Protection

The Cavalli Audio Liquid Carbon® is a balanced transportable headphone amplifier designed for high-performance audio. It is a lightweight and compact solid-state amplifier, engineered to handle a wide variety of headphones, from In-Ear Monitors (IEMs) to planar magnetics.

Function Description

The Liquid Carbon® amplifier operates in a fully balanced mode internally, regardless of the input type. It accepts both balanced (XLR) and single-ended (RCA + 3.5mm) inputs. For single-ended inputs, the amplifier utilizes an internal solid-state buffered phase splitter to convert the signal into a balanced format, ensuring that the amplification circuit always operates in its optimal balanced configuration.

The amplifier offers two gain settings to accommodate different headphone impedances and sensitivities: a low gain of 1X and a high gain of 3X. These gain settings can be hot-switched while music is playing, providing flexibility for users to adjust the amplification level on the fly. The front panel features LED indicators to show the current gain setting (white for 1X, red for 3X) and input selection (white for balanced, red for single-ended).

For outputs, the Liquid Carbon® provides three options on its front panel: a 4-pin XLR balanced output, a 4-pin RSA (Kobiconn) balanced output, and a standard ¼" TRS (phone plug) single-ended output. It is important to note that the single-ended output, which uses only half of each channel's amplifier, delivers only one-quarter of the power available from the balanced outputs. The amplifier is designed to perform optimally when used with balanced outputs, maximizing power delivery and minimizing the noise floor.

The Liquid Carbon® is powered by a universal switch-mode power supply (SMPS), allowing it to operate globally with input voltages ranging from 85-265VAC at 50-60Hz. It connects via a standard IEC power cord, which should include an approved safety ground connection.

Usage Features

To begin operation, users should first connect the appropriate power cord, ensuring a safety ground connection. The leftmost pushbutton on the front panel serves as the power switch; pressing it will illuminate all three front panel LEDs, indicating the amplifier is on.

The center pushbutton controls the gain setting. When the button is "out," the amplifier is in 1X gain mode (indicated by a white LED). When "in," it is in 3X gain mode (indicated by a red LED). This allows for easy adjustment to match headphone requirements.

The right pushbutton is the input selector. When "out," the balanced input is selected (white LED). When "in," the single-ended input is selected (red LED). Both gain and input can be hot-switched during listening sessions.

For optimal sound quality, it is recommended to allow the amplifier to warm up for approximately 15-30 minutes before connecting headphones and engaging in critical listening.

Important Cautions for Usage:

Volume Control: Always turn down the volume or power down the amplifier completely before plugging or unplugging any sources or headphones. This protects both the user's hearing and the equipment.
Headphone Connections: When using the 4-pin XLR output, do not connect headphones wired with a 4-pin XLR that has a common ground (3-wire) connection. Doing so will damage the amplifier and void the warranty.
Recommended Mode of Operation: For the best performance, it is strongly recommended to operate the Liquid Carbon® in a fully balanced mode from input to output. While single-ended input and output combinations are possible, the balanced output maximizes power and minimizes noise.

Maintenance Features

The Liquid Carbon® dissipates approximately 8W of power and is designed to run slightly warm. Adequate ventilation is crucial; avoid enclosing the amplifier in spaces with no airflow or placing it on top of other heat-generating equipment.

Warranty and Support:

The Cavalli Audio Liquid Carbon® comes with a 1-year warranty covering parts and labor. This warranty does not include shipping costs to Cavalli Audio. Warranties are non-transferable unless pre-authorized in writing. Customer-induced damage or negligence will incur charges for parts and labor.

Any modifications not approved in writing by the factory will void the warranty. Products with altered or missing serial numbers are considered counterfeit and will not be repaired or indemnified by Cavalli Audio.

For warranty support or any operational issues, users should contact Cavalli Audio at support@cavalliaudio.com. General questions or comments can be directed to sales@cavalliaudio.com or info@cavalliaudio.com.

Safety and Protection:

Water and Moisture: Never use the amplifier near water, handle it while in contact with water, or allow it to come into contact with water. Never spill liquids into the unit.
Power Sources: Ensure the voltage/frequency specified on the amplifier's back label is compatible with the local mains voltage.
Grounding: The electrical ground is a critical safety feature. Do not defeat the ground connection with special plugs or power cords, as this will void the warranty. Use a power cord that meets local standards.
Power and Signal Connections: Cables should never be connected or disconnected while the equipment is powered up to prevent damage.
Servicing: To minimize risks, users should not attempt to service the amplifier beyond what is described in the manual. All other servicing must be performed by authorized service personnel.